Chapter 3 states that "group norms define the nature of the group and the relationships among the group members by expressing the collective values of the membership..."(p.41). Basically the idea of group norms are the expectations that we have set for each member, some are obvious and deal with everyday type of manners, and others can be an actual set of rules. San Jose State definitely have group norms. As a student we are expected to show up to our classes on time and participate in the class. This can be under the category as a crucial norm, because if we don't show up and participate than it is hurting our standing in the class; and this can also be considered an implicit norm, an obvious expectation that students need to meet. This also rings true at my work. I work in a medical office and our group norm is to treat each patient with respect, show up on time, and complete all of the daily tasks. Families also posses group norms, where each member has a role. The parents "bring home the bacon", the kids help with the chores.
After being a student for several years, I was able to pick up on the norms pattern. Every teacher I have had have all had very similar expectations so over time it is obvious what the norms are. Other times teachers make more explicit norms that they write in a syllabus. I have been able to adapt to these different group norms rather easily. I have grown up learning to treat everyone with respect and how important it is to be punctual. So far I have been able to adapt to SJSU's norms and know what the expectation is of me as apart of their group/ community.
I completely agree when you say that as students we have norms that we are expected to conform to. Most of these are learned over time, while others are simply expected of us from particular individuals. For example, although we all know that as students it is our responsibility to show up to class, do our work, and participate regularly... from time to time we may come across a professor or teacher who expects "more" from us than previous teachers. Group norms are pretty much apparent in every group of people we associate ourselves with. Different groups simply call for different norms and behaviors.
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